Bryant University grads told to 'be curious, be gracious, be hopeful'

Saturday

May 18, 2013 at 1:18 PM

SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Historian and Random House publishing executive editor Jon Meacham told some 730 graduates at Bryant University's 150th commencement Saturday that a life well lived is "not judged by the bottom line" but "by the big picture."

Mike McKinney

SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Historian and Random House publishing executive editor Jon Meacham told some 730 graduates at Bryant University's 150th commencement Saturday that a life well lived is "not judged by the bottom line" but "by the big picture."

Meacham, former Newsweek editor, urged them to consider that small things matter too. "Be curious, be gracious, be hopeful," he said.

His address bemoaned the crass, combative tone that he said makes up much of public discourse now. This generation should take on "politics as sport and say 'enough, this will not stand.'"

With diplomas firmly in hand, many of the graduates carried out a tradition, posing for photos beneath an old arch. It is said the student who walks under the arch during undergraduate years will not graduate.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.